some thoughts on polishing stainless

[Rasper]

I have revised my choice of compounds on stainless.

I used to use emery after a final machine sanding with worn out 400 grit, then green stainless compound, then white rouge. I began to notice that the green was cutting better than the emery, even though it's a finer grit, leading me to think that the green has a harder abrasive than the emery, that emery breaks down on stainless.

Also I have stopped using white rouge after the green. It doesn't seem to add anything. I have begun using the very fine blue compound instead, as a final polish, and it appears to produce a deep rich shine.


Richard

[mpierich]

Originally Posted by Rasper

I have revised my choice of compounds on stainless.

I used to use emery after a final machine sanding with worn out 400 grit, then green stainless compound, then white rouge. I began to notice that the green was cutting better than the emery, even though it's a finer grit, leading me to think that the green has a harder abrasive than the emery, that emery breaks down on stainless.

Also I have stopped using white rouge after the green. It doesn't seem to add anything. I have begun using the very fine blue compound instead, as a final polish, and it appears to produce a deep rich shine.
Richard

Thanks for the tip. Might be that the green has a "drier" compound (not as greasy).

[Brocca]

the green contains chromium oxide its harder than emery which is why it cuts faster, using emery compound is a waste of time on SS. I get the best results after sanding then straight to green. I sometimes use yellow with a loose wheel, it improves the shine slightly......I also use the exact same process on Titanium with amazing results and minimal time.

[dathrillr]

good info..... let me ask u guys, im working with some ss from the 70's (restoration job) and after i cut with green and finish with white at one angle it looks amazing, then if i swing piece to a different angle i see fine "swirls" or buff lines. is there a way to minimze them or get rid of totally? should i hit with blue as a final step? i didnt think the blue would cut the swirls.

thanx in advance

[jrow]

dathrillr,

Try some Mothers Mag wheel polish.

John

[dathrillr]

seriously? i thouight those creams were just for up keep on parts.... i have a can of Blue Majic how about that? should i buff that out on a loose wheel with gentle touch or hand buff with terry towel?

[jrow]

dathrillr,

Try the terry towel.

John

[Rasper]

Hey John,

I looked on the web for Mother's and found they have both a Mag Wheel Polish and also something they call Billet Polish. Any idea what that is?

I'm always looking to improve the ultimate finish on my polished stainless sculptures and am going to try Mother's as you suggested.

Richard

[jrow]

Rasper,

Read the containers and see what is different in the contents of the polish. I have never used the Billet polish.

John